Persimmons have to be mushy ripe to be edible.
I suspect that store purchase of nearly ripe fruit is the best option.
It can be a challenge to find certain ripe fruits at a grocery store. I haven’t bought a pear or peach or nectarine in ages.
A small correction to your statement.
Fuyu persimmons (the flattish variety) can be eaten when still firm...like an apple. They are way better soft however but for someone who packs a lunch and wears a uniform to work and eats frequently in the car.....that is a benefit.
The Hachaya persimmon however must be completely soft and mushy. If you try to eat it 1 second early it is like biting into a pile.of chalk dust and you may not get your mouth open again for a few minutes.